Ahmedabad nearly under lockdown again

BREAK THE CHAIN

Ahmedabad nearly under lockdown again

Traders Fear Recovery Will Be Slower This Year

TIMES NEWS NETWORK

Barring a few, most of the restrictions from last year’s lockdown have been imposed in Ahmedabad and 28 other cities and towns of Gujarat, putting trade once again in the doldrums. Roads which were normally bustling, are again deserted in broad daylight. Due to the surge in Covid-19 cases across the state, the trade community has complied and embraced the restrictions imposed by the administration. However, industry players fear that recovery in business will be much slower than last year.

“After last year’s lockdown, pent up demand did play a huge role in boosting business. However, this time, it has already taken a hit for about a month and is expected to worsen in the days to come. There is a fear factor among people at play more than anything else, as cases have not just risen exponentially but there is a severe shortage of resources too,” said Jayendra Tanna, president, Gujarat Traders Federation (GTF).

Traders expect some clarifications from the government and the civic administration on whether wholesale traders whose offices operate from their shops, can continue business. “We also expect that the government takes measures to help curb unfair competition from online players. Like other states, online platforms must be allowed to deliver only essential commodities,” said Tanna.